Notah Begay: Tiger Woods’ ankle has ‘zero mobility,’ before the Masters

As the anticipation builds for Tiger Woods’ potential return to the Masters next week, the excitement among golf fans is palpable. However, there looms a major question mark surrounding the 15-time major champion’s ability to compete at the highest level, with concerns mounting over the state of his body.

Former Stanford teammate and close friend, Notah Begay III, shed some light on Woods’ physical condition during a recent conference call. Begay revealed that Woods is facing significant challenges, including zero mobility in his left ankle and ongoing issues with his lower back. Despite these constraints, Woods is diligently formulating a strategy to navigate his way through the tournament.

During a junior golf tournament hosted by Begay, where Woods’ son Charlie participated, Woods candidly shared his concerns about his physical limitations. He acknowledged that the lack of movement in his ankle is forcing his body to compensate, potentially leading to additional stress and discomfort, particularly in his back.

The severity of Woods’ physical struggles became tragically apparent in February 2021 when he was involved in a serious car accident that nearly cost him his lower right leg. Since then, he has been grappling with the aftermath of the incident, which has further compounded his existing injuries and made walking a challenging endeavor.

Despite these obstacles, Woods has been determined to make a comeback, recently testing his skills at Augusta National alongside fellow golfer Justin Thomas and club chairman Fred Ridley. His track record at the Masters speaks for itself, having claimed victory at the prestigious tournament five times in his illustrious career.

However, the road to redemption is fraught with uncertainty, as Woods grapples with the lingering effects of his injuries. The question of whether he can endure the physical demands of playing four rounds of golf remains unanswered, with pundits and commentators speculating on his chances of making it through the weekend.

While Woods’ competitive spirit may drive him to aim for victory, the reality of his physical condition cannot be overlooked. As ESPN commentator Andy North aptly stated, merely playing on the weekend would be a significant achievement given the adversity Woods has faced.

As the golf world eagerly awaits Woods’ fate at the Masters, his resilience and determination serve as a testament to his enduring legacy in the sport. Whether he emerges triumphant or faces further setbacks, his unwavering commitment to the game continues to inspire fans worldwide.